ResidentialBusiness

The New York Stock Exchange announced on Wednesday it will launch an exchange in Texas, increasing competition among listing venues in the state. Several high-profile firms, including Elon Musk’s Tesla and SpaceX, have relocated their headquarters to Texas, attracted by the state’s perceived favorable legal and regulatory environment. The Texas Stock Exchange, a new venture backed by financial giants including BlackRock, Citadel Securities and Charles Schwab, is targeting a 2026 launch after submitting paperwork late last month to operate as a national securities exchange. The New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq have dominated the lucrative U.S. listings market in a virtual duopoly since the 2000s. The TXSE would represent the first challenge to that dominance if it wins regulatory approval to begin trading and seeking new listings. NYSE Chicago will reincorporate in Texas and rebrand as NYSE Texas, providing companies with a new venue to list their securities, said the NYSE, which is part of the Intercontinental Exchange. “As the state with the largest number of NYSE listings, representing over $3.7 trillion in market value for our community, Texas is a market leader in fostering a pro-business atmosphere,” NYSE Group President Lynn Martin said. A TXSE spokesperson did not comment directly on the NYSE plan. “We have known all along that Texas is the best place to do business,” the spokesperson said in a statement following the news. “The Texas Stock Exchange is harnessing this momentum to build a national securities exchange in our home state.” Nasdaq recently stepped up its presence in Texas, announcing a new regional focus for its listings business and naming Rachel Racz to head the segment focusing on Texas, Latin America and the southern United States. The NYSE’s initiative shows that a regional focus may not be enough of a competitive distinction that will allow the Texas Stock Exchange to challenge the two incumbents, said Owen Lau, a senior analyst at Oppenheimer & Co. “There may be something in Texas Exchange that is yet to be revealed, so it is still too early to gauge how it plays out. But so far, it doesn’t appear to dramatically change the listing/exchange landscape.” Both TXSE and NYSE Texas will be fully electronic equities exchanges headquartered in Dallas. —Niket Nishant, Manya Saini, and Suzanne McGee, Reuters Laura Matthews contributed to this report. View the full article

What if the Playboy Mansion was filled with OnlyFans content creators? That’s the pitch for the Bop House, a TikTok page that has gained nearly three million followers since its launch in December. Founded by Sophie Rain, 20, and Aishah Sofey, 22, the house is home to eight creators aged 19 to 24, who collectively boast over 33 million followers. Their TikTok presence leans into viral, algorithm-friendly content like flying private to the Super Bowl and reviewing popular cookie brand Crumbl. But their real revenue stream comes from OnlyFans. The Bop House claims to have generated $10 million in revenue in its first month. “It’s just like a little girl group that we’re all doing and we just want to uplift each other and help each other grow on TikTok,” Rain told the Daily Mail. The house has its own website, with a profile of each girl directing to their various social media platforms. The name itself is a reference to Gen Z slang which stands for “baddie on point,” a term used to describe a person who uses their body to make money. The group has sparked controversy over the blurred line between their PG-rated TikTok presence and their adult content careers. Many members, including Rain, are 21 and under (one even wears braces). Although Rain is an OnlyFans creator, she says she’s also a devout Christian and wears a promise ring. “The issue is the content looks very very very young,” TikTok user Amber Horsburgh posted in a video. “The deliberate marketing of youthful personas for adult content is creating a demand for barely-legal performers.” With their mostly PG Instagram and TikTok videos, the Bop House has built a following on social media to funnel viewers toward their OnlyFans content. Given the platform’s young user base, about 25% of TikTok’s global users are between the ages of 10 and 19, this raises clear concerns. Whether that responsibility falls on the Bop House is less clear. Either way the Bop House has no plans to slow down. In a recent interview, Rain added, “We can afford a new mansion every single month with the money the Bop House is making us.” View the full article

Tulsi Gabbard, a former U.S. representative with little intelligence experience, was confirmed as the top U.S. spy on Wednesday, as Republicans lined up behind a nominee once seen as among President Donald Trump‘s most controversial picks. The Senate voted 52 to 48, mostly along party lines, to confirm Gabbard to the position overseeing the 18-agency intelligence community and acting as Trump’s top adviser on intelligence issues. The only Republican to vote against Gabbard was Senator Mitch McConnell, the party’s former leader in the chamber. No Democrats or independents voted in favor of the nominee. The vote was another victory for Trump as he pushes to secure quick Senate approval for all of his nominees for administration positions. The Senate’s Republican majority leader, John Thune, held a procedural vote on Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who also faced fierce opposition to his nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services, immediately after the Gabbard confirmation vote. Gabbard, a 43-year-old former Democrat, had faced bipartisan questions about past statements seen as supporting U.S. adversaries, and lack of experience that would have prepared her to manage a $100 billion budget. Gabbard neither worked at a spy agency nor served on an intelligence committee during her four House of Representatives terms. She will now oversee an agency created by Congress in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks to coordinate the country’s sprawling intelligence apparatus, one of the most important national security positions in U.S. government. “The selection of a DNI is a very big deal,” said Emily Harding, director of the Intelligence, National Security and Technology Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, noting the DNI’s broad access to classified material and role as the president’s main intelligence adviser. Russia, Syria, Snowden Trump’s announcement of Gabbard in November sent shockwaves through the national security establishment, adding to concerns that intelligence-gathering would be politicized, and weakened, during a second Trump administration. Skeptics questioned Gabbard’s past statements seen as sympathetic toward Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and defense of the government of former Syria leader Bashar al-Assad, whom she visited in Syria in 2017 while he was under U.S. sanction. At her hearing, Gabbard faced particularly pointed questioning from senators from both parties about her past defense of former U.S. National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden, who leaked thousands of highly classified documents and then sought asylum in Russia. Some were noticeably frustrated at her refusal to call Snowden a traitor. Republicans who expressed concerns faced an intense political pressure campaign, from Trump and his billionaire ally Elon Musk, who threatened to support primary opponents of any Republican who obstructed nominees. Senator Todd Young, an intelligence committee member who did not immediately back Gabbard, issued a statement supporting her before the panel’s party-line 9-8 vote to recommend the nominee to the full Senate. A former Marine Corps intelligence officer criticized by Musk before he endorsed Gabbard, Young said Gabbard had reassured him that she would support intelligence professionals and provide unbiased information. Gabbard’s supporters also praised her pledges to pare back the DNI’s office, at a time when Trump’s administration is slashing and even seeking to close government agencies. Past DNI nominees have been intelligence veterans confirmed with broad bipartisan support. Daniel Coats, a former ambassador and Republican senator who served on the intelligence committee, was confirmed by 85-12 in 2017, as Trump began his first term. The DNI under former President Joe Biden, Avril Haines, had held a series of major national security positions, including deputy director of the CIA. She was confirmed by 84-10. Harding said Gabbard will need to reassure allies that they can trust Washington as Trump pursues an aggressive foreign policy, and be cautious about making cuts amid myriad global challenges. “The person that is going to be doing it needs to be someone that he (Trump) trusts and somebody that he’ll listen to,” Harding said. Gabbard left the Democratic Party in 2022 to become an independent. She backed Trump and joined the Republican Party in 2024. —Patricia Zengerle, Reuters View the full article

Wholesale prices have doubled over the past year as culls to stop spread of virus prompt shortages and rationingView the full article

The stage is set. Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project. Two heavyweights in the project management software division. Known as project scheduling software, project portfolio management, project planner and more, but which is the champion or is there a dark horse in the wings to steal the title? To make the Primavera vs. Microsoft Project fair, we’ll define both, explain what they’re used for and where one surpasses the other. These are both widely used project management tools, but that doesn’t mean they’re without issues. One of the main complaints is the cost and complexity. We’ll get into the stats and let readers decide which is better, Primavera P6 or MS Project, but know that there is a galaxy of project management software for all industries, including construction scheduling. In the battle between Microsoft Project and Oracle Primavera, the best choice might be neither. That’s because ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that is less expensive and easier to use than either of these products. Our software has multiple project views which means project managers can schedule projects on robust Gantt charts or multiple projects on roadmaps, while teams execute their tasks on the visual workflow of kanban boards or task lists. Stakeholders can stay up to date with calendar views. But a lot of tools have multiple project views. Ours differs in the power they give users. For example, our Gantt charts do everything a normal Gantt chart can do, but also link all four types of task dependencies to avoid delays and cost overruns. They can also filter for the critical path instantly, which means no complex calculations. Then set the baseline to track progress in real time. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2024/04/critical-path-light-mode-gantt-construction-CTA.pngIt’s no contest, ProjectManager is best when it comes to Privamera P6 vs. Microsoft Project. Learn more Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: Why Should You Choose Primavera P6? Excuse our enthusiasm, but we can’t contain our endorsement for ProjectManager, which does what Primavera and Microsoft Project do and does it better. But fair is fair. Let’s give Primavera vs. MS Project its due and examine where they excel and where they fall short. What Is Primavera P6? /wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Primavera-P6logo.png Primavera P6 is a comprehensive project management software suite developed by Oracle. It’s designed to plan, manage and execute large-scale and complex projects. It is widely recognized for its ability to handle large numbers of tasks, resources and project dependencies. This tool is known for its advanced features in scheduling, resource management, cost management and project portfolio management. What Is Primavera P6 Used For? As noted above, this project management software is used to manage complex and large-scale projects. It handles significant resources, multi-layered dependencies and multiple teams. This involves project scheduling, resource management, cost management, portfolio management, risk management, collaboration and reporting. Related: What Is Oracle Primavera P6? Uses, Features & Pricing /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Primavera-P6-e1739373919657.webp Who Uses Primavera P6? Organizations across various industries use the tool. Some of these are construction companies, engineering firms, oil and gas industry, aerospace and defense, utilities and energy, project management offices (PMOs) and government agencies. Primavera P6 Key Features Primavera P6 has many tools that allow it to be used across many industries. The project management software is designed to handle complicated, large projects and, therefore, has these key features. Tracks critical path method, dependencies and project baselines with Gantt charts Has resource usage profiles, as well as resource allocation, leveling and histograms Project portfolio management with optimization and cross-project resource management Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Primavera P6 Better Than Microsoft Project? Unlike Microsoft Project, which is more suited for smaller to medium-sized projects with fewer tasks, Primavera P6 can handle thousands of tasks, dependencies and resources. MS Project has basic resource management, but Primavera P6 allows for detailed resource management across multiple projects, including labor, equipment and materials, and is better at managing larger teams. Again, MS Project has similar features, such as portfolio management, but it’s not as comprehensive as Primavera P6. The same is true with cost and budget management, where Primavera P6 includes features like earned value management (EVM), which helps to track project performance against the baseline. Primavera P6 has enterprise-level project management features that can handle complex workloads, while Microsoft Project is simply not that robust. Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Primavera P6 Worse Than Microsoft Project? However, there are limitations compared to Microsoft Project, particularly in terms of usability, cost and flexibility. Both are not known for their ease of use, but Primavera P6 has a steeper learner curve and requires significant time and training. Primavera P6 is also prohibitively expensive, which makes it out of reach for small-to-medium-sized businesses. Then there is the resource management complexity. Primavera P6 has advanced resource management capabilities, but they might be too detailed for smaller teams and organizations. Also, integrating Primavera P6 with other software, such as ERP systems, can require custom solutions and technical expertise, whereas MS Project seamlessly integrates with the Microsoft ecosystem and other third-party applications without such difficulties. Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: Why Should You Choose Microsoft Project? That’s one side of the Primavera vs. MS Project debate. Now, it’s time to give the other side its due. Don’t make a decision quite yet. While Primavera P6 might look like a superior alternative to Microsoft Project, it’s still not a loser. It has its merits which we’ll explore now. What Is Microsoft Project? /wp-content/uploads/2023/04/int-logo-msproject.jpg Microsoft Project is project management software that provides tools for project planning, scheduling, resource management and collaboration. The project management software is designed to help project managers create detailed project schedules, assign tasks and resources, track project progress and generate reports. What Is Microsoft Project Used For? Microsoft Project is used to create project plans and schedule projects. It can allocate resources, track progress and manage budgets and costs. The tool can also generate reports on progress, timelines, costs and resource usage. There are also some collaborative features, though the product is not known as a great collaboration tool. Related: What Is Microsoft Project? Uses, Features and Pricing /wp-content/uploads/2022/03/MS-Project-screenshot.jpg Who Uses Microsoft Project? A wide range of industries and organizations of various sizes use Microsoft Project. Typical users include project managers, small-to-medium-sized businesses and freelancers and professional services consultants. It can also be found in departments within larger organizations as well as government and nonprofit organizations. Microsoft Project Key Features We’ve listed some key features that make Microsoft Project one of the best-known project management software products. Gantt charts with task dependencies and milestones Cost tracking against the project budget and assigning costs to resources, tasks and projects Pre-built and customizable reports and visual dashboards Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Microsoft Project Better Than Primavera P6? Microsoft Project might be a better choice than Primavera P6 in the following scenarios. For example, when managing smaller or similar projects, where it’s more straightforward and has sufficient tools to schedule tasks, allocate resources and track budgets. No one would say MS Project is easy to use, but it is in comparison to Primavera. It’s also not more cost-effective than most project management tools, except when comparing it to the expensive Primavera P6. One of the main advantages is that it works easily with other Microsoft tools that organizations are probably already using, such as Outlook, Excel, Teams, etc. While MS Project is not a collaborative tool, it can be used with other Microsoft products, such as Project for the Web and Project Online. Of course, this will add to the cost of using the software, which might make some shy away from the extra purchases. Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: How Is Microsoft Project Worse Than Primavera P6? If users are looking for project management software that’s designed for large-scale, complex projects, then Primavera P6 will be a better solution than Microsoft Project. It’s going to struggle to manage bigger projects effectively. Therefore, Primavera P6 is the choice for enterprise-level project management as it provides detailed control over multiple, complex projects. This includes Primaveria’s dominance in resource and portfolio management when working with large, distributed resources across multiple projects. Primavera P6 also has built-in features for detailed risk management and analysis. MS Project lacks the depth required for managing high-risk, large-scale projects. It also doesn’t have the advanced scheduling capability that allows for fine-grained control over complex timelines, task dependencies and constraints that Primavera P6 has. How to Make a Microsoft Project Gantt Chart With ProjectManager We haven’t talked about ProjectManager for a while, but at this point, it’s important to bring up the fact that our software can make a superior Gantt chart. Both Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project have Gantt charts, but they’re difficult to learn and expensive to use. Our software will also allow Mac users to view and edit MPP files, unlike MS Project. A quick way to clear those hurdles is to take a free 30-day trial with ProjectManager. See how easy it is to take a Microsoft Project (MPP) file and import it into our software. There, it can be shared easily among the project team, edited without difficulty and then exported back to Microsoft Project. While it’s better to just use ProjectManager to manage projects, this workaround is helpful for those working in organizations that are wedded to MS Project. Just follow these steps./wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ms-project-pm-integration.png 1. Export Your Microsoft Project File as an Excel, MPP or CSV File Users can import MPP files, excel documents or any CSV file into ProjectManager. Open the Gantt chart view. On the top ribbon, click the import button, which looks like a box with an arrow piercing its top. 2. Choose the Excel, CSV or MPP File You Want to Import Now, follow the prompt and select the file you want to import. Once the file has been imported, users can view and edit it on their PC or Mac. 3. Select Options At this point, users will be given the option to choose which option they want, such as importing the MPP file to a new project or adding it to an existing one. 4. Import Into ProjectManager Select whether to import all the data from the Microsoft Project file or just the tasks. 5. Customize Your Microsoft Project Gantt Chart With ProjectManager When a window that says success pops up, you’re ready to customize your Microsoft Project Gantt chart within ProjectManager, which means using our all unique and easy-to-use features. /wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Asana-Gantt-chart-success-pop-up.png Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: Pricing Comparison We’ve talked a lot about pricing, but having provided details. If you can take the sticker shock, below is a pricing comparison between Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project. (Note: there are two versions of Primavera P6, but Oracle Primavera Cloud.) Primavera P6 Pricing Oracle Primavera P6 Professional: The P6 Professional version of Primavera is a desktop-based software that can be purchased directly from Oracle, or through an authorized Oracle software reseller. It must be installed into workstations. Oracle Primavera P6 Professional costs $2,570 for an annual subscription. That price includes $2,020 plus an annual maintenance fee of $550 for upgrades, fixes, patches, etc. The renewal of the maintenance cost isn’t required, but it’s suggested. Oracle Primavera P6 EPPM: There’s also the enterprise option, Primavera P6 Enterprise Professional Project Management (EPPM). This version of Primavera P6 is accessed via the web rather than being a desktop software application which makes it easier to implement in large organizations. This option will run you $2,750 for a perpetual license, which includes an annual maintenance fee of $605. Oracle Primavera Cloud (OPC): Like Primavera P6 Professional and Primavera P6 EPPM, Oracle Primavera Cloud focuses on project, program and portfolio management, but has a different feature set. OPC has the added benefits of faster delivery and fosters collaboration to improve efficiency and quality. Microsoft Project Pricing Planner Plan 1: $10/user/month Planner and Project Plan 3: $30/user/month Planner and Project Plan 5: $55/user/month ProjectManager Is Better Than Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project For those still reeling from the prices of Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project, don’t worry. There is an alternative. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with features like Primavera P6 and MS Project to deliver projects on time and within budget but without the expenses or steep learning curve. Our software is designed to deliver projects whether they are big and complex or small and simple, for one project or a program or portfolio of projects and across industries like construction, IT, manufacturing, professional services and more. Our software has powerful risk management features to identify and track issues, automated workflow with task approval settings to ensure quality control, version control, global search and unlimited document storage. Monitor Project Progress, Timelines and Costs in Real Time Of course, being about to plan and assign tasks is only the start. Project and portfolio managers need to monitor their team’s performance and progress to ensure it aligns with the schedule. To get a high-level overview of the project, toggle over to the real-time project or portfolio dashboards. They’re collecting live data and displaying it on easy-to-read graphs and charts that show time, cost, workload and more. For more detail, use customizable reports on status, portfolio, workload, timesheets, variance and more. They go deep for teams or provide a summary to keep stakeholders updated. Secure timesheets streamline payroll and provide a window into labor costs to help deliver projects within budget. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Dashboard-light-mode.jpg Schedule and Balance Project Resources Managing resources is also essential to delivering successful projects. Gantt charts can schedule human and nonhuman resources, including costs. Project managers can then view their team’s resource allocation on color-coded workload charts and see who’s overallocated or underutilized. Then, balance their workload to keep everyone working at capacity without risking burnout. There’s also a team page that shows a daily or weekly overview of the team’s activities. This page can be filtered to show priority, progress and more. /wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Team-Light-2554x1372-1.png Related Primavera and Microsoft Content This isn’t the only time we’ve reviewed Primavera and Microsoft products. Those who want to read more about the pros and cons of these project management tools, check out the links below to recently published articles on the subject. What Is Oracle Primavera P6? Uses, Features & Pricing What Is Oracle Primavera Cloud? Uses, Features & Pricing 10 Top Microsoft Project Management Software Microsoft Project Online: Pros, Cons and Best Alternatives Best Microsoft Project Alternatives: Free & Paid Options Microsoft Project for Mac: How to Run MS Project Files on Mac ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post Primavera P6 vs. Microsoft Project: In-Depth Software Comparison appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

A new bill introduced in Congress last month aims to require proof of citizenship to register to vote—which could make an already-complicated registration process harder for millions of Americans. On January 3, Republican representative Chip Roy reintroduced the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act to Congress to “ensure that our elections and our sovereignty cannot be hijacked and influenced by foreign nationals who have no business voting in this country.” The SAVE Act would require voters to present physical documentary proof of citizenship to register or reregister to vote. This means passports, birth certificates, or special driver’s licenses that include proof of citizenship—either REAL ID or an “Enhanced Driver License” that includes an American flag to show its holder’s citizenship. But by introducing additional barriers to vote, this legislation could incidentally disenfranchise millions of young voters, voters of color and married women, according to an analysis published by the nonprofit Brennan Center for Justice. Why do people oppose the SAVE Act? After the 2016 election, President Trump stoked fears about noncitizen voting by falsely claiming that 3 million-to-5 million noncitizens voted in the election, but instances of this occurring are “vanishingly rare,” according to the Brennan Center. Noncitizen voting is already illegal in all 50 states. While the new requirements could ultimately bar noncitizen registration—which experts say only happens to an “infinitesimal” degree—they could also complicate or even block registration for millions of Americans who may not possess the required documents. Last year, the Brennan Center found that 21 million Americans don’t have proof of citizenship readily available. The Enhanced Driver Licenses—which show proof of citizenship on the card—are only available in five states. And almost half of Americans don’t even own a passport. Younger voters and voters of color are less likely to have access to these required documents than others, according to the Brennan Center’s analysis. The nonprofit also wrote that the SAVE Act would “functionally eliminate” mail-in voting registration because it requires voters to produce documentation “in person” to an election official. This bill may also disproportionately block married women from voting: As many as 69 million married women don’t possess a birth certificate that matches their legal name, according to the Center for American Progress. The bill passed the House once in July, and with its reintroduction, it will likely see the floor again soon. But to be passed into law, the bill would need to overcome a potential Senate filibuster—which would require unlikely support from seven Democrats. View the full article

If you’ve been living your life severed from Apple TV because you’re on an Android phone, then Apple has some good news for you, refiner. Starting today, the Apple TV app is available on Pixels, Samsung Galaxies, and all other Android phones and tablets, complete with the ability to subscribe to Apple TV+ and the MLS (Major League Soccer) Season Pass. That’s great news for anyone who, like me, can’t stop thinking about Severance, and Apple’s doing its best to make the sign-up process as easy as possible. According to a press release sent to journalists, Android users are able to sign up for Apple TV’s various subscriptions using their Google Play account, rather than needing to enter a separate email. Apple TV’s non-subscription offerings will also be available to Android users, so you’ll be able to watch pay-per-view titles as well. Android devices aren’t the first non-Apple hardware to get access to Apple TV—I personally watch via my PlayStation 5—but the new cross-platform support should make mobile viewing much easier. Android TV did technically already have a version of Apple TV up for download, but now all Android devices will share the same privilege. Aside from Severance, which is currently in its second season, Apple TV+ also hosts popular shows including comedy Ted Lasso and sci-fi drama Silo, as well as original films like Killers of the Flower Moon and Coda. There are also more niche favorites like game-development sitcom Mythic Quest, which carries over much of the same creative team from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Regarding sports, Apple TV+ fans get access to Friday Night Baseball and Sunday Night Soccer for free. The Major League Soccer Season Pass, meanwhile, is a separate purchase from Apple TV+ and allows viewers to watch all available MLS matches without blackouts, rather than only those featured on Sunday Night Soccer. To sweeten the pot, there’s also an array of bonus content such as post-match analysis, highlights, and interviews with players. The league is set to kick off its 30th season on Feb. 22, which I’m guessing might have influenced today’s sudden announcement. As on Apple devices, Android users can get a seven-day free trial to Apple TV+ as soon as they download the app, although there’s a number of more tempting deals out there that tend to rotate in and out of availability. If you decide to take the plunge, a subscription will run you $10 a month, or $19.95 a month if you decide to get it as part of an Apple One plan. The MLS Season Pass, then, costs $15 a month standalone, or $13 a month if you already have an Apple TV+ subscription. View the full article

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said insurance companies and banks are already pulling out of disaster-prone areas, which could pose problems. View the full article

From the moment Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier for the first time in 1947, zipping from New York to Paris in less than three hours became every traveler’s dream. It’s a dream that shattered as soon as everyone realized supersonic flight was really annoying for people on the ground. That’s why NASA and Lockheed Martin created the X-59 Quesst, which was designed with an aerodynamic profile that would reduce the eardrum-breaking boom to a dull thump. NASA’s upcoming test flight was supposed to be the first silent supersonic flight in history—then January 28 happened. That’s when the startup company Boom Supersonic flew a supersonic flight over the Mojave Desert, in California, using a radically different approach that was theorized decades ago but only now has been possible thanks to new engines and computers. [Photo: Boom Supersonic] The company announced the milestone February 10. The testing of its Boomless Cruise technology—recorded with a sophisticated microphone array by NASA—showed that its XB-1 demonstrator aircraft broke the sound barrier three times without generating a sonic boom that reached the ground. This is the first time a plane has achieved this. “On our first flight, we expected to break the sound barrier without a sonic boom—that was our prediction,” Blake Scholl, founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic, tells me. “We broke the sound barrier three times: on the first flight, no boom; and on the second flight, three more times. Our forecast was no sonic boom, and that’s exactly what we had.” Rather than redesigning the physical airframe of the airplane to redirect air and reduce the supersonic shock volume—like the X-59—the company bet on taking advantage of using a physical phenomenon called Mach cutoff, using powerful computers and software to carefully change the airplane’s speed and altitude depending on the weather around it. [Photo: Boom Supersonic] Mach cutoff is a phenomenon where a sonic boom, instead of traveling directly to the ground, bends upwards and dissipates into the atmosphere. “There is a boom that comes off the airplane, but it makes a kind of U-turn in the sky,” Scholl explains. “And as long as the boom is coming off the airplane at the right angle and it’s high enough, you can think of it as the bottom of the U never touches the ground. And as long as the bottom of the U never touches the ground, there’s no audible boom.” This phenomenon occurs because the sonic boom refracts upward due to temperature and wind gradients affecting the local speed of sound, just as how a pen appears to bend when passing through a glass of water because the difference in the density of water and air affects how light propagates. The NASA X-59 [Image: Lockheed Martin] Unlike the X-59’s low-boom approach, Boomless Cruise aims to entirely eliminate the boom at ground level. The X-59 is designed to manage the shockwaves through its airframe design, aiming for a “gentle thump.” The way the engine is placed, and the fact that there’s no cockpit breaking the flow of air, its Pinocchio nose reduces the sonic boom. Scholl says the approach works, but there’s still a boom. “With Boomless Cruise, there literally is none.” During its first supersonic flight, XB-1 reached a top speed of Mach 1.12, demonstrating that the theory works. The data collected during XB-1’s supersonic runs allowed Boom to validate their sonic boom models and refine the algorithms that predict the operation within Mach cutoff. The successful flight test validated that this works. [Photo: Boom Supersonic] “What we’re doing is well-known physics that’s been around for a long time,” Scholl says. The key to making it a reality now lies in advanced engine technology and sophisticated computing capabilities, which were unavailable in the past. The Concorde could have done it, but its engines weren’t powerful enough and they required afterburning to reach supersonic speed. The kind of computing power that’s needed to do what the XB-1 did during its two flight tests also didn’t exist. “So, fast-forward 50 years, computers, we’ve got great weather data, and we’ve got engines that are powerful enough to fly supersonic without afterburners.” [Photo: Boom Supersonic] The future of supersonic flight After validating Boomless Cruise technology, the company is planning to build its supersonic airliner. It will utilize the Symphony engine, which is specifically designed for enhanced transonic performance, to enable Boomless Cruise for commercial flights. Symphony’s enhanced transonic thrust will allow its commercial airliner, called Overture, to surpass the sound barrier at altitudes exceeding 30,000 feet. This altitude is sufficient for Mach cutoff physics to function. According to Boom Supersonic, Overture will use the company’s secret sauce: an advanced autopilot system that continuously optimizes speed for the Boomless Cruise based on real-time atmospheric conditions. This is what allows it to avoid the sonic boom. This dynamic adjustment is essential because weather conditions, particularly temperature and wind, significantly affect the speed of sound and the behavior of the sonic boom. [Photo: Boom Supersonic] If all goes as well with the demonstrator, the only major hurdle will not be technical but legal. Just as NASA is trying to do with its Quesst program, the company will need to convince lawmakers to allow for supersonic flight from coast to coast, over the continental United States. He’s convinced it will happen. “It’s a very simple regulatory change. We should have a noise limit, not a speed limit,” he tells me. Boom Supersonic also notes on its site that Overture “is not designed as a low-boom aircraft, and [they] do not expect to certify it for unrestricted supersonic flight over land.” This means that, over sea, the airplane’s speed will be unrestricted, reaching Mach 1.7. There will be no speed limit because the sonic boom doesn’t matter over the ocean, and flying from Paris to New York will be twice as fast, taking only about 3.5 hours versus the current 7 hours. Over land, however, the future aircraft’s speed will be restricted to Mach 1.3 to avoid the booms, Scholl says: “Sometimes, as low as 1.05 and sometimes as high as 1.3. Usually, it’ll be between 1.1 [and] 1.2.” That’s 50% faster than current commercial planes, which will get you from New York to Los Angeles in around three hours rather than six. Whatever happens with regulations, with this successful display, Boom Supersonic has demonstrated that it can be done. We will need to wait and see if it reaches the point in which we will enjoy quiet, affordable, and sustainable supersonic travel. And perhaps restart the era in commercial aviation that the Concorde brought to the world. View the full article

Apple is launching its first major holistic health study in five years to determine how Apple products, including iPhones, Apple Watches, and AirPods, can “play a role in advancing and improving physical health, mental health, and overall well-being.” It may be Apple’s most ambitious study yet. Starting Tuesday, Apple customers in the United States can opt in to participate in the Apple Health Study by downloading Apple’s Research app, version 6.0 (more on that below). The sweeping study, a collaboration with Brigham and Women’s Hospital—a preeminent research hospital in Boston, affiliated with Harvard Medical School—takes a complete approach to understanding how data can predict, detect, and manage health and well-being. “We’ve only just begun to scratch the surface of how technology can improve our understanding of human health,” cardiologist Calum MacRae, the principal investigator of the Apple Health Study at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, said in a statement. What makes this study groundbreaking? Unlike other medical studies, which rely on data from a limited number of participants over a finite period of time, the Apple Health Study’s continuing access to more than 350,000 U.S. participants’ data over time expands that possibility. That combined data comes from the Apple Women’s Health Study, the Apple Hearing Study, and the Apple Heart and Movement Study. The Apple Health Study also aims to harness technology in a new way to see how data from Apple and third-party devices can not only predict and detect, but also “monitor and manage changes in participants’ health” to identify insights about our overall well-being. For example, when a person’s health changes, their body emits a physical or emotional signal, flagging a secondary, related health issue. Apple devices can identify these changes earlier, helping users create a more proactive approach to health, so something like early detection of hearing loss could reduce the risk of cognitive decline later on. The study focuses on a number of health markers, including: activity, aging, cardiovascular health, circulatory health, cognition, hearing, menstrual health, mental health, metabolic health, mobility, neurologic health, respiratory health, and sleep. How can I opt in to the Apple Health Study? Apple’s Research app, which launched in 2019, enables study participants to opt into sharing data (which they can choose to stop sharing, and leave the study, at any time). To enroll, download the latest version (6.0) of the Apple Research app. The study is open to participants who live in the U.S., meet the minimum-age requirements, and complete the informed-consent process. This app is currently available only in the App Store for iPhone and Apple Watch. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Being both a lightweight and a lover of sparkling wine means I often end up with a leftover half-bottle of the stuff, or I choose not to open one at all. Neither of these options feels right to me. While I don’t mind pouring the occasional $11 flat prosecco down the drain, my partner and I just got engaged, and we've been gifted a few bottles of fancy champagne—stuff way to good to waste. The inevitable leftovers must be protected. After testing a few hacks to preserve sparkling wine’s fizz, I found one that works. The testing optionsA friend gave me a Le Creuset champagne stopper along with a bottle of bubbly around Christmas. Weeks later I saw an Instagram post by America’s Test Kitchen on this very topic. In that video, ATK focuses on a hack for using plastic wrap if you don’t think your champagne stopper is up to the task: Simply cover the opening with plastic wrap and tie a rubber band securely around the neck to keep the plastic in place. This option prompted me to conduct a side-by-side test—but not with my fancy champagne, no sir. Instead, I bought four cheap bottles of prosecco. (Champagne and prosecco are both sparkling white wines; they’re just produced in different regions. this test will apply to all sparkling wine, including reds.) I poured a serving of bev out of each bottle and set them up with different preservation options: One bottle was fitted with an intentionally designed champagne stopper. Another was fixed with the plastic wrap and rubber band rig. The third got plugged with an old wine cork and draped with a tea towel for safety (just in case a pressure buildup caused to to go shooting off). The fourth bottle was left open as a control. The sparkling resultsTwenty-four hours later, I poured out another glass from each bottle. Before even tasting the wine, I noticed two things: The specifically constructed champagne stopper was the only one that released from the bottle with a powerful POP! of air, almost like it was being unbottled for the first time. I also noted that each glass looked nearly identical, producing visible bubbles and a bit of foam when poured. This told me that tasting would be the best indicator of how well each of these methods preserves fizz. Despite appearances, only the one on the far right was bubbly on the palate. Credit: Allie Chanthorn Reinmann While each sip did reveal some fizzy sensations, the only one that felt like a freshly opened bottle was the sample that used a specifically designed champagne stopper—i.e. the one that popped. That sip of that wine offered both an initial visual presence of bubbles and the quintessential delayed foaming that you expect from champagne. (That foaming sensation is what sets a fresh bottle apart from a flat bottle.) I actually tested this one again after another 24 hours and it popped again, and still aced the taste test. Another surprising result: The other three samples were about the same, meaning the the completely unstoppered control bottle had the same mouth-feel as the other two (the old-cork stoppered one, and the one sealed with plastic wrap). This suggests to me that the bottle’s thin neck shape alone does the most work in preserving bubbles, and it's not worth bothering with jamming the old cork in there, let alone fussing with plastic wrap. A champagne stopper is worth it If you’re a fan of prosecco, lambrusco, pét-nat, or a classic champagne toast, my experiment proves it’s worth it to have a proper champagne stopper in your kitchen. This type of stopper has a silicone rubber seal and a strong hinging mechanism to ensure it forms an air-tight that stays that way. Using one of these should help you extend the life of any sparkling wine for weeks, which should be enough time to polish it off. Le Creuset Champagne Crown Sealer, 2.25", Black Nickel $49.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $49.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg There are cheaper options, but even if you opt for a higher-priced brand like the Le Creuset one I tested, after only a few uses you’ll end up saving well more than that in un-wasted bubbles. Whether it's Valentine’s Day, an engagement, or a fresh start, the reasons to celebrate with a bottle of sparkling wine are myriad. It pays to be prepared. Bring on the bubbles. View the full article

The ceasefire agreed between Israel and Hamas makes provisions for the passage of food and humanitarian aid into Gaza. This support is much needed given that Gaza’s agricultural system has been severely damaged over the course of the war. Over the past 17 months we have analysed satellite images across the Gaza Strip to quantify the scale of agricultural destruction across the region. Our newly published research reveals not only the widespread extent of this destruction but also the potentially unprecedented pace at which it occurred. Our work covers the period until September 2024 but further data through to January 2025 is also available. Before the war, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and strawberries were grown in open fields and greenhouses, and olive and citrus trees lined rows across the Gazan landscape. The trees in particular are an important cultural heritage in the region, and agriculture was a vital part of Gaza’s economy. About half of the food eaten there was produced in the territory itself, and food made up a similar portion of its exports. By December 2023, only two months into the war, there were official warnings that the entire population of Gaza, more than 2 million people, was facing high levels of acute food insecurity. While that assessment was based on interviews and survey data, the level of agricultural damage across the whole landscape remained out of view. Tree crop damage by month from October 2023 to September 2024. The months in which damage first occurred are in blue and purple, while undamaged tree crops are shown in green. [Image: Yin et al (2025)] Most olive and citrus trees are gone To address this problem, we mapped the damage to tree crops – mostly olive and citrus trees – in Gaza each month over the course of the war up until September 2024. Together with our colleagues Dimah Habash and Mazin Qumsiyeh, we did this using very high-resolution satellite imagery, detailed enough to focus on individual trees. We first visually identified tree crops with and without damage to “train” our computer program, or model, so it knew what to look for. We then ran the model on all the satellite data. We also looked over a sample of results ourselves to confirm it was accurate. Our results showed that between 64% and 70% of all tree crop fields in Gaza had been damaged. That can either mean a few trees being destroyed, the whole field of trees completely removed, or anything in between. Most damage took place during the first few months of the war in autumn 2023. Exactly who destroyed these trees and why is beyond the scope of our research or expertise. Greenhouses and the date of initial damage between October 2023 and September 2024. [Image: Yin et al (2025)] In some areas, every greenhouse is gone As greenhouses look very different in satellite images, we used a separate method to map damage to them. We found over 4,000 had been damaged by September 2024, which is more than half of the total we had identified before the start of the war. In the south of the territory, where most greenhouses were found, the destruction was fairly steady from December 2023 onwards. But in north Gaza and Gaza City, the two most northerly of the territory’s five governorates, most of the damage had already taken place by November and December 2023. By the end of our study period, all 578 greenhouses there had been destroyed. North Gaza and Gaza City have also seen the most damage to tree crop fields. By September 2024, over 90% of all tree crops in Gaza City had been destroyed, and 73% had been lost in north Gaza. In the three southern governorates, Khan Younis, Deir al-Balah and Rafah, around 50% of all tree crops had been destroyed. Agricultural damage is common in armed conflict, and has been documented with satellite analysis in Ukraine since the 2022 Russian invasion, in Syria and Iraq during the ISIS occupation in 2015, and in the Caucasus during the Chechen wars in the 1990s and 2000s. Satellite images show destruction of trees (top) and greenhouses (bottom) in north Gaza. [Image: Yin et al (2025)] The exact impact can differ from conflict to conflict. War may directly damage lands, as we have seen in Gaza, or it may lead to more fallow areas as infrastructure is damaged and farmers are forced to flee. A conflict also increases the need for local agricultural production, especially when food imports are restricted. Our assessment shows a very high rate of direct and extensive damage to Gaza’s agricultural system, both compared to previous conflict escalations there in 2014 and 2021, and in other conflict settings. For example, during the July-August war in 2014, around 1,200 greenhouses were damaged in Gaza. This time round at least three times as many have been damaged. Agricultural attacks are unlawful Attacks on agricultural lands are prohibited under international law. The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court from 1998 defines the intentional use of starvation of civilians through “depriving them of objects indispensable to their survival” as a war crime. The Geneva conventions further define such indispensable objects as “foodstuffs, agricultural areas for the production offoodstuffs, crops, livestock, drinking water installations and supplies and irrigation works”. Our study provides transparent statistics on the extent and timing of damage to Gaza’s agricultural system. As well as documenting the impacts of the war, we hope it can help the massive rebuilding efforts that will be required. Restoring Gaza’s agricultural system goes beyond clearing debris and rubble, and rebuilding greenhouses. The soils need to be cleaned from possible contamination. Sewage and irrigation infrastructure need to be rebuilt. Such efforts may take a generation or more to complete. After all, olive and citrus trees can take five or more years to become productive, and 15 years to reach full maturity. After previous attacks on Gaza the trees were mostly replanted, and perhaps the same will happen again this time. But it’s for good reason they say that only people with hope for the future plant trees. Lina Eklund is an associate senior lecturer at Lund University. He Yin is an assistant professor of geography at Kent State University. Jamon Van Den Hoek is an associate professor of geography at Oregon State University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

Hate speech on X dramatically increased during the several months that Elon Musk served as CEO when compared to the prior months, according to a new study. The analysis, published Wednesday, showed that hate speech spiked on the platform shortly before Musk purchased X (then called Twitter), and continued through May 2023. Researchers found that the weekly rate of hate speech was up about 50% over the months prior to Musk’s purchase. The study noted an increase in use of homophobic, transphobic, and racist slurs. The researchers also found a spike in “likes” of hate posts, which they said indicate increased engagement. The findings run contrary to Musk’s claims that hate speech impressions on the platform were sloping downward. (X did not respond to Fast Company‘s request for comment.) To be sure, the researchers said they could not set firm conclusions on a cause-effect relationship between Musk’s acquisition of X and the findings. Still, they argued for stronger moderation and more research. “Overall, these results highlight a need for increased moderation to combat hate and inauthentic accounts on X,” the researchers wrote. Once Musk took over the social media company, he quickly loosened restrictions on what can be said or shared on the platform. The study’s release coincides with the slow return of many high-profile advertisers to X. Several brands, including Comcast, Apple, IBM, Disney, and Warner Bros., pulled their ad spend from the platform soon after Musk’s takeover, because ads began to appear next to hate speech and other offensive content. But now Musk is one of the top officials in President Trump’s administration, and some may want to bolster their relationships with Musk. Apple is reportedly considering returning to the platform. Comcast, IBM, Disney, and Warner Bros. have all resumed ad spend, according to The Wall Street Journal. Still, ad buyers have said that brands that return to X are spending much less than they were before Musk acquired the company. (Amazon is reportedly upping its ad spend.) View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The first time I put on real lifting shoes, it was a revelation. My feet were so stable during squats, it was like they were glued to the ground. They were so comfortable I forgot to take them off for deadlifts, however—a rookie mistake, as the heels put you at a disadvantage for that lift. Here’s what you should know about the shoes you wear when you lift heavy. Why your shoes matterWhen you first head into the gym, you’ll wear whatever shoes you’ve got. If that means a pair of running shoes, it’s not the end of the world. But as soon as you can, you should upgrade. Running shoes, and other comfortable sneaker-like footwear, tend to have squishy soles. They're great for comfort and for cushioning your feet during a run. But when you're lifting heavy, that cushion introduces some problems. You won't have as solid a connection to the floor, and if your weight shifts a little, you could find yourself wobbling a bit. This extra instability is not dangerous (that's a myth) but if you lift in running shoes, you're missing an opportunity to give yourself a properly stable base. Do yourself a favor and give yourself the proper footwear for the job. Besides "not squishy," there is one other consideration: How high do you want the heels on your lifting shoes? You have two options here—either flat-soled shoes like Chucks or Vans, or Olympic weightlifting shoes with a hard, elevated heel (typically 3/4"). It is not weird to bring two pairs of shoes to the gym. Let's look at your options. Heeled weightlifting shoes are for squats (and Olympic lifts)Let's take a look at heeled weightlifting shoes, also called "squat shoes" or "lifters." These aren't commonly sold in sporting goods stores, so if you haven't seen or heard of these, you're not alone—but they are quite common on the feet of serious lifters, and can be ordered online. (I'll recommend a few brands below.) These weightlifting shoes have a non-cushioned sole and a hard, elevated heel, made of plastic or (traditionally) wood. The heel is usually three-quarters of an inch tall, which may not feel like much, but really makes a difference at the bottom of a squat. If you have trouble squatting to your desired depth, you could probably use a little help with ankle mobility. Besides doing ankle mobility exercises, you can also wear heeled shoes for an instant improvement. Even for people with excellent ankle mobility, heeled lifters can be beneficial. Olympic weightlifters, even the ones with freakishly good ankle mobility, all wear weightlifting shoes in competition and for most of their training. The heel helps you to keep a more upright body position at the bottom of the squat, which helps you to be stronger and more stable. (This Instagram post from Catalyst explains more of the reasoning while showing off what kind of shoes I mean.) I compete in Olympic weightlifting myself, and I'll wear my lifters for my entire workout, unless there's something specific that requires a different type of shoe. (Plyometrics in the warmup? Running shoes are best for that.) If your training is more bodybuilding or powerlifting style, you may want to wear flat shoes for most of your lifts, and change into lifters for squats. One bonus for the powerlifters: If you compete in a federation that requires you to keep your whole foot on the floor while bench pressing, the heel on lifting shoes can help. (If you don’t compete, or if keeping your heel on the ground isn’t an issue for you, then you can bench in whatever shoes you want.) The best weightlifting shoes to considerMost weightlifting shoes perform equally well, and only differ in their fit. You don't need to overthink the question of which shoe is "best" according to other people; just try on a few and choose the one that fits your feet. The shoes should fit snugly, without pinching when you walk around or when you get into a lunge (or split jerk) position. If they hurt, they're too tight. If they flop around or feel like a roomy running shoe, they're too loose. If your feet are narrow, try Nike Romaleos. If your feet are wide, try Rogue Do-Wins. If you prefer a wide toe box (wider in the front of the shoe, slightly narrower in the back), try the TYR L-1. Other popular lifters include Adidas Adipowers and the Reebok Legacy Lifter. Reebok Legacy Lifter $199.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $220.00 Save $20.05 Shop Now Shop Now $199.95 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $220.00 Save $20.05 Most weightlifting shoes are sold in men's or unisex sizing, so don't worry if you can't find a "women's" version. Typically you'll subtract 1.5 sizes from your women's size to find your men's size, but check the company's size charts to confirm. For an example of sizing, I wear a women's 8 in most shoes, and size up to 8.5 in Nike running shoes. When I bought my Romaleos, I went with the men's 6.5, which corresponds to a women's 8, same as my street shoes. They fit like a glove. Unfortunately, weightlifting shoes tend to be pretty expensive—you'll pay well over $100 for most models, and $200 is a more typical price. On the bright side, they'll last years if you take care of them and only wear them indoors. (They're not disposable like running shoes, thank God.) There are also plenty of older models and lightly used pairs available on places like eBay. If you're buying new, Do-Wins tend to be the cheapest of the major brands. Flat shoes are for deadlifts and general strength trainingIf you don't need heeled lifters, or if you already have a pair but want something else for other lifts, your best bet is to find a comfortable shoe with a thin, flat sole. Flat shoes are better than running shoes in the gym because they don't have that squishy layer that can make you feel unstable. They aren't quite as stable as the heeled lifters we discussed above, but they're cheaper and more versatile. They are also lower to the ground, which can be an advantage when you're deadlifting. In a deadlift, you're picking a bar up from the floor, and standing up. The taller your heels, the farther you have to move the bar—and an extra three-quarters of an inch can be enough to make the difference between a successful PR attempt and one that was almost there. (As with running shoes, this isn't a huge problem, but some of us like to take every advantage we can get.) I mentioned above that I wear lifters for my Olympic weightlifting workouts. But if I'm training in any other style, especially if it involves a lot of deadlifts or a mix of movement types (farmer's carries, box jumps) I'll wear my Chucks. The best flat-soled shoes for strength trainingThese are a bit easier to shop for than weightlifting shoes, since a lot of casual shoes fit the bill, and you don't have to stick to athletic brands. The classic choices in this category are Converse (Chuck Taylor high-tops or low-tops) or Vans Old Skools. Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas High Top $63.20 at Amazon $68.95 Save $5.75 Shop Now Shop Now $63.20 at Amazon $68.95 Save $5.75 You can always deadlift in socksI need to mention one simple fix for the "okay, how many shoes do I have to bring to the gym??" problem. You can do your deadlifts—and other lifts, if needed—in socks. Now, don’t deadlift barefoot if it’s a gym you share with other people. That’s usually against the rules. But socks are fine. You won’t have any cushioning under your feet, and you won't have that 3/4" heel either. In competition, lifters sometimes wear thin-soled slippers for deadlifts just so they can technically be wearing shoes but still lift as if they were in socks. Socks are great if you pull conventional (with your feet together), but if you do sumo deadlifts instead, you may find socks too slippery on your lifting platform. If that’s the case, get some grippy deadlift slippers, or go back to your trusty Chucks. View the full article

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. Last week, we talked about carpooling for work, and here are eight of my favorite stories you shared — some heartwarming, some not. 1. The kazoo music I fondly think of the coworker who, when I offered her the aux cable to play music off her device, looked hesitant and then said, “Look, I need to warn you, there’s going to be a lot more kazoo music then you’d expect.” 2. The trick I carpooled once with a coworker who lived in my neighborhood. I didn’t even realize he lived near me until he approached me one day and asked if I would like to carpool. Gas was hideously expensive, so I thought why not. The next day, before he dropped me off at home, he swung past his ex-wife’s house. He pulled over to chat with her for a minute and heavily implied that he and I were an item. When he actually took me home after that I told him I would be driving myself in the future. 3. The dog I carpooled only once. The coworker did not tell me that she would drop her Great Dane at the dog daycare. I could not sit in the passenger seat because apparently that is her husband’s seat (?), and only he can. I should have just said I changed my mind then and there, but no, apparently young me was a glutton for punishment. I had to sit in the back of the car with the enormous dog, which kept trying to push his muzzle in my face, full force. I asked my coworker to help me, as I was covered in drool, and she told me — seriously, and I’m quoting here — “My husband lets him put his tongue in his mouth; that calms him down.” I took a taxi to go back home after work. 4. The drop-off A long time ago, I had a job in an office building in the middle of an industrial park one town over. I had to bus-train-bus every day. One day a coworker offered to drive me to my train station because she passes that way on her way home. That sounded wonderful until we got to the road that the train station was named after and she said cheerily, “Here we are!” Except the train station was nowhere in sight. I asked her where the station was, or even which direction it was and got another cheery, “No idea! But I have to turn here so you better hop out!” (Note she hadn’t even pulled over, she was just at an intersection waiting to turn right.) Basically I was in the middle of nowhere, no clue where I was, on a busy road with no sidewalks. Luckily I guessed the right direction and after a LOT of walking got to the train station. I never accepted a ride from her again. 5. The morning person In my first job out of college, I started carpooling with two colleagues, a man about my age and a slightly older woman. It was fine at first, but soon enough the guy drove me bonkers! I, dear reader, am not a morning person, in any sense. But this guy. He never. Stopped. Talking. Usually about fascinating topics, and I often love a good thought-provoking debate, but like – not at 6 am before the first cup of coffee’s kicked in, ya know? He even once printed out a several page article about one of our “lively” morning discussion topics and left it in my mailbox for me later in the day. Thanks, but dude – sun’s not even up yet, and I barely remember my own name. I was at least grateful for the other woman in our carpool who could absorb some of the mental demand of thoughtful interaction at screw-this o’clock in the morning. Eventually, he and I got opportunities to talk at later times in the day when I was a fully functioning human, and I found out that I actually enjoyed his conversation and company (when I was awake enough to participate.) We got on famously everywhere EXCEPT the early-morning carpool. 20 years later, we no longer work at the same place. However, he’s still a hopeless morning person, and I still have to remind him regularly that, really, I cannot absorb an in-depth analysis on the state of foreign politics before my first cup of coffee. He’s an excellent cook and the kids are adorable, though. 6. The neighbor I was at the train station one day waiting for my commuter train. It didn’t come when it was due, and after several minutes went by there was finally an announcement that it wasn’t coming at all due to technical difficulties. I was about to call an Uber when a kind-looking woman on the platform told me she was going to drive into the city and offered me a ride. It was risky because she was a stranger, but I said yes. She began leading me back to her house, and she said, “I just live there on the corner. My dogs have probably barked at you.” And then I realized with dread that she was the Barky Dog Mom. Her dogs have charged and barked at me on numerous occasions, and I’m afraid of them because them seem vicious and an invisible fence is the only thing between them and me (and I don’t completely trust those things). One day I recorded her dogs barking at me. I had no plans of posting it anywhere, and it was honestly because I thought there was a real possibility of them attacking me and I wanted evidence if that happened. She came out of her house and confronted me, telling me that I didn’t need to record it. I’m not proud of my behavior, but I yelled back at her how her dogs were a menace to then neighborhood, and we got into a shouting match. Fast forwarding to that day at the train station, we didn’t recognize each other because we had been 40 or 50 feet away from each other when that altercation took place. I didn’t know what to do, so I just got in her car and let her drive me. It’s about a 30- or 40-minute drive, so we had plenty of time to talk. She was so nice!! We talked about our jobs, our families, our childhoods … just about everything. Toward the end I finally fessed up, identifying myself as the neighbor who had recorded her dogs and screamed at her, and said that I’d understand if she wanted to kick me out of her car. But she was so cool about it, she said she understood me being frightened of her dogs and didn’t hold grudges. And I said I understood how me taking a video of her dogs would antagonize her and reassured her I had never shared it with anyone. I also promised to delete it, which I later did. My neighbor and I are on great terms now. She invited me to come over and meet her dogs, and I’m not afraid of them anymore! The next day I sent her some thank-you flowers for giving me a ride to work that day. And for not kicking me out of her car! 7. The problem with time I carpooled for years with an otherwise lovely colleague who simply could not be on time. No matter what time I asked her to be ready, she would be at least five minutes late. The excuses varied from “I slept in” to “my kids are sick” to “I had to redo my hair.” There was always a reason, an apology, and a promise to do better the next day that would inevitably be broken. This really stressed me out because we worked for a micromanager who hated when employees were late. She lived about a five-minute drive from my home, so I started texting her “I’m outside” when I was getting ready to leave. She never ever caught on because I was still there before she emerged, with an excuse and an apology and a promise to do better the next day. We carpooled for years. (No regrets – she paid me in free Starbucks and it was worth it!) 8. The friend I have a good story! 20 years ago, I had a coworker who lived nearby. Once she asked if I could drive her to work, car issues, no biggie. She wanted to pay me something for gas but since it was truly on the way I said, “Nah, maybe save me a couple cookies next time you make some” (she did). Some time later there was a road construction project that made a good part of the commute a real PITA. My wife got tired of hearing me gripe about it and said why don’t you and Tammy (real name) carpool? So we started carpooling for the next year or two until I moved. And we LOVED it. We switched off every day or two, saved money on gas, and would gab about all kinds of things … fav foods and cooking usually. Having someone to talk to made the lousy parts of the commute go by much easier. Tammy, if you’re out there, I hope you’re doing well! View the full article

America and China are vying for dominance, while Europe tries to competeView the full article

Longstanding workplace issues such as mistreatment, the normalization of toxic behaviour and a lack of accountability for workplace culture have fuelled a growing trend known as revenge quitting. This phenomenon, on the rise since the 2000s, sees employees leaving their jobs not just for better opportunities, but as a form of protest and self-preservation against unfair treatment. In the past, fear of economic ruin, social stigma and valuing job stability over personal dignity kept many employees from quitting under such circumstances. However, unprecedented inequality and other geopolitical risks are causing an increase in revenge quitting and similar behaviours. Companies that want to address this issue have much to gain, but they must go beyond diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) or human resources strategies. Creating a genuine sense of belonging can reshape workplace culture, boost engagement and overall business success. Consequences of revenge quitting When employees resign as a final act of protest against toxic workplace conditions, the impact on organizations can be significant. One of the most obvious consequences is financial loss. Sudden departures lead to expenses related to recruiting, hiring, training, as well as lost productivity and project disruptions. Organizations also lose valuable institutional knowledge and skills when experienced employees quit, hampering innovation, continuity and long-term strategy. The abrupt departure of employees also sends a powerful message to remaining staff, potentially leading to decreased morale, trust and engagement. High-profile cases of revenge quitting can also damage an organization’s reputation, affecting customer relationships and investor confidence. Finally, revenge quitting can have lasting consequences on workplace culture. If the toxic behaviour that caused the resignation remains unaddressed, remaining employees may become disengaged, leading to a decline in work quality. Mitigating the risk of revenge quitting My research has found that when employees feel a genuine sense of belonging, they are more engaged and loyal, they produce more innovative and creative solutions, and they are more reliable and productive. Moreover, belonging buffers against workplace stressors that lead to toxic behaviours by reducing feelings of isolation, mitigating burnout and encouraging active listening before making decisions. This, in turn, decreases the likelihood of employees making abrupt, retaliatory exits. Employees want to work for companies that respect their individuality and value their contributions. High-performing teams thrive when there is clear accountability, fair conflict resolution and a culture of feedback and learning. Addressing toxic behaviours early helps maintain trust and reduces the risk of retaliatory quitting. It’s also essential to distinguish between belonging and merely fitting in. True belonging is a reciprocated behaviour between employees and the organization, not solely the employee’s responsibility. Organizations that focus only on forcing employees to “fit in” overlook the systemic changes required to foster true benefits. Belonging requires an active commitment to the five core indicators of belonging: comfort, connection, psychological safety and well-being. Each indicator is essential in reducing the desire to disengage or quit out of frustration or retaliation. Pillar 1: Comfort Workplace comfort is essential for focus, cognitive function and productivity. While physical factors like temperature, noise and ergonomics matter, social comfort is more critical. Social comfort comes from clear expectations, defined workflows and recognizing individual talents within a team. When the economy becomes volatile, it can force organizations to deviate from their original strategic plans in an effort to stay afloat. When this happens, comfort is the first thing to erode in a workplace, which allows toxicity to go unchecked. For example, when economic shifts force leaders to pivot, employees may have to scrap their work. If leadership lacks alignment in the new strategic actions, expectations will rise while clarity drops, creating stress and conflict. Leaders should reset expectations, restore social comfort and ensure collaboration rather than competition. Pillar 2: Connections Strong social relationships in the workplace can buffer against stress and enhance resilience. Connection is fostered through mentorship programs, collaboration and informal networking. In remote and hybrid work settings, ensuring employees feel connected to their teams through structured check-ins and virtual social space is critical. Connections increase engagement and build emotional attachment, which reduces the risk of employees leaving. Employees who experience meaningful interactions with colleagues and leaders are more engaged and less likely to feel alienated. Pillar 3: Contributions Employees need to feel that their work is meaningful and valued. Recognition activates the brain’s reward system, which reinforces motivation and increases engagement. When employees feel unappreciated, resentment builds. When this happens repetitively, it can lead employees to disengage from their work, and eventually depart. Organizations must implement structured recognition programs that celebrate individual and team achievements, ensuring employees know their work is valued. Equally important is offering opportunities for employees to contribute beyond their job descriptions, whether through special projects or mentoring. A workplace that values and acknowledges contributions fosters commitment and decreases the likelihood of employees resigning. Pillar 4: Psychological safety Ensuring employees’ ideas and concerns are met with curiosity and understanding is crucial for retention. In fear-based workplaces, stress inhibits cognitive function and creativity. Leaders must create environments where feedback is welcomed, mistakes are viewed as learning opportunities and employees feel empowered to express their perspectives. Employees feel safe when they work in an environment where feedback is taught and encouraged. They are less likely to disengage or engage in retaliatory behaviours like revenge quitting. Strategies such as clear communication channels, anonymous feedback mechanisms and inclusive leadership training help create psychological safety. Pillar 5: Well-being Employee well-being is tied to cognitive function, emotional regulation and job satisfaction. Employees experiencing chronic stress, burnout or work-life imbalances are more likely to disengage and eventually quit. Workplace programs that support mental and physical health are crucial. Offering flexible work arrangements, mental health and stress management resources, normalizing breaks and setting boundaries helps sustain employee energy and commitment. More than a checkbox Revenge quitting isn’t just a series of isolated incidents, but a reflection of a deeper, systemic disregard for worker dignity. The workforce has changed, with employees now prioritizing workplaces where they feel respected, valued and safe. Companies that fail to adapt will continue to lose experienced, talented workers — not because the job market is more competitive, but because employees refuse to tolerate environments that undermine their dignity. Leaders need to recognize that creating a culture of belonging isn’t about checking a DEI box — it’s about ensuring employees have every reason to stay and grow within their organizations. Andrea Carter, Adjunct Faculty in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Adler University This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Ever since my home was broken into, I've installed as many security cameras, floodlights, and other security measures in place as I could get away with (and they've been working great so far). The video doorbell I chose to go with for my front door is the Reolink Video Doorbell. Right now, you can get one of the best video doorbells of 2025 for a $51.99 (originally $109.99), the lowest price it has ever been, even cheaper than used ones on Amazon, according to price-tracking tools. Reolink Video Doorbell Connection: Wifi and POE, Resolution: 2K, Visibility: 180 degrees, Night Vision: Yes. $51.99 at Woot $109.99 Save $58.00 Get Deal Get Deal $51.99 at Woot $109.99 Save $58.00 One of the main reasons I decided to go with the Reolink Video Doorbell is because there is no monthly subscription fee unless you want to pay for cloud service—but you don't need to, as you can just use an SD card for local storage (it auto-deletes the old footage so the local storage doesn't get full). I loved that it comes with a free plug-in chime so you can hear it wherever you put it in your home. It's also very flexible; you can choose to install it with an ethernet cable if your wifi is weak or wired if you don't want to depend on batteries. The advantage of using an ethernet cable (other than a solid, reliable internet connection) is that it won't be affected by wifi jammers that robbers might use before a break-in. It also has a pre-roll video feature that records six seconds before an event is triggered so you can have context on the event. The field of view is designed to capture a wide 180-degree view, meaning you won't be able to see packages on your porch (unless you angle it down, but you might miss catching people's faces who get close to the door). You can read more about this camera in PCMag's review. View the full article

The latest social media products use audio to communicate. Like audio messaging and conversation rooms. That’s the quick definition of social audio. This is a great new way for small businesses to engage new prospects and develop a brand. Consumers expect the human element when they interact with a small business. And the pandemic has forced these platforms to become the new normal. Here’s what you need to know about this latest social media innovation. What are Social Audio Platforms? Social audio integrates social media by adding premium audio experiences. Some of the social media sites that have launched have a built-in audience already. Big players have jumped on board. Facebook announced they are building tools to create audio snippets like Soundbites. Twitter has an audio conversation tool that includes up to 13 people at once. The trend is important for marketing. The human voice is intimate and engaging. Still, you need to watch for personal data concerns when you enter a room. Big names like Facebook top many lists for collecting this info. New Audio Social Platforms are Growing These platforms are gaining in popularity. They’re poised to be the next big thing. Check out the available stats for an industry leader in this social connection space, Clubhouse. And then read on to find out how you can use this technology to get to the next level by increasing your social media ROI. How to Use Audio Social Media in Your Business Understanding how to use these new social platforms is important. Here’s five methods and tools to build a much different experience in communication. There are some big advantages for small businesses. They can use these tools to train people to dialog, communicate and present. It all adds up to more of the kind of engagement that drives sales and profits for yet another way of how to make money on social media. Live Audio Rooms Facebook provides one of these options. You can choose a time and invite speakers. You can have up to 50 speakers, while there is no limit on the number of listeners. Please note that participants need to be iOS users. For additional information on other requirements, follow this link. This is a great way for small businesses to satisfy their marketing/engagement needs. Get connected with prospects from around the world. This innovation is designed to compete with Clubhouse. Social Audio for Online Events Clubhouse understands how a live conversation at an online event makes a difference. This drop in audio chat tool offers excellent audio quality. And you can deliver personalized messages during big events. It’s a great way to engage target market audiences. Social Audio For Voice Messaging This app functions as a voice-only news feed. Listen to voice messages that have a limited lifespan. It’s ideal for small business owners looking for up-to-date information. Keep informed about the latest requirements in your niche. As A Radio Station Build a community around music. Host a radio station through a social audio app. Talk freely as people listen. Stationhead integrates with Spotify and Apple Music. For Audio Meetings Small business owners looking for live conversations focusing on audio first take note. Slack huddles can have up to 50 participants. Users can turn on captions and screens. A great option for departments that need to brainstorm when facing deadlines. This is a great option when video marketing tools need a little extra push. Or when you’d rather go with the audio rather than the visual. MethodDescription Live Audio Rooms- Facebook offers live audio rooms where you can schedule and invite speakers. - Allows up to 50 speakers and unlimited listeners. - iOS users can access this feature. Social Audio for Online Events- Platforms like Clubhouse offer live audio chat for online events. - High-quality audio and the ability to send personalized messages during events make it ideal for engaging target audiences. Social Audio for Voice Messaging- Use apps that offer voice-only news feeds. - Listen to voice messages that expire, ideal for staying updated on niche requirements. As A Radio Station- Host a radio station through a social audio app, creating a community around music. - Engage with your audience through free-flowing audio discussions. - Platforms like Stationhead integrate with Spotify and Apple Music. Audio Meetings- Utilize platforms like Slack for audio meetings with up to 50 participants. - Features like captions and screens enhance brainstorming and discussion. - A valuable option for video marketing when audio takes precedence. The Best Social Audio Apps and Audio Social Media Platforms A social audio app is a social media tool that uses audio to let users communicate with each other. A live audio conversation is only one element of these new social innovations. Following are a few of the top app choices with a current version of each. Clubhouse You can download Clubhouse from the App Store and also on Android. This social audio platform offers roles for a moderator, speaker, and listener. It has specific rules that address certain topics, including the violation of intellectual property rights. The co founder of Clubhouse is Paul Davison. Rohan Seth is the other person who co founded the company. They are one of the biggest players in this quickly developing field. Greenroom Got a large audience? Users here can monetize by getting access to what’s called a creator fund. Create recordings of conversations for use later with this platform. Sign up with a Spotify account. Select topics in advance and be notified about future discussions. This is a good tool when you want to get notified about marketing topics. And trends that make a difference to your target market. Facebook Live Audio Rooms The number of people consuming through this social online tool has no limits. But only 50 speakers at a time have access to this space. With no cap on the listeners, this type of room challenges Clubhouse. Allowing people who are listening to react with live captions is another bonus. Spoon. This social media/audio option is available for Android and iOS. You don’t need to worry about monetizing with annoying banner ads. There’s technology here whereby users can provide digital gifts. Get original live podcasts and more tools and channels for marketing through engagement. This app draws in more people through recorded snippets. Instagram Live Rooms Attend virtual events with three other people. There are features for businesses here like Live Fund Raisers and Shopping. The Live Camera option gives you access. You’ll be at the top of the screen until you add other creators. If you run into any issues, there’s a customer care page that can help. Racket Another app that enables you to connect with people globally is Racket. This platform is beneficial for small businesses and marketing efforts. Racket competes with industry giants like Clubhouse by offering micro podcasts. It operates through conversations on your phone’s browser. Keep in mind that this is a rapidly growing area. For instance, there’s a new tool that emphasizes mentorship. Wisdom offers an excellent perspective for entrepreneurs. App / PlatformDescriptionNotable Features Clubhouse- Available on the App Store and Android. - Offers roles for moderators, speakers, and listeners. - Rules cover certain topics, including intellectual property rights.Co-founded by Paul Davison and Rohan Seth. Twitter Spaces- Conduct audio conversations on Twitter. - Open to Twitter users. - Conversations are public, like Tweets. - Ideal for when text or video isn't suitable.Enhances Twitter's social media experience. Greenroom- Allows monetization through the creator fund. - Create and record conversations. - Sign up with Spotify account. - Topics and future discussions notifications.Valuable for staying updated on marketing topics and industry trends. Facebook Live Audio Rooms- Unlimited listeners, but limited to 50 speakers. - Live captions for listener reactions. - High potential for audience engagement.Provides an alternative to Clubhouse with the potential for a larger audience. Spoon.- Available on Android and iOS. - No banner ads for user-friendly experience. - Users can provide digital gifts. - Offers live podcasts and marketing tools.Draws in users with engaging live podcasts and recorded snippets. Instagram Live Rooms- Allows virtual events with up to three participants. - Business features like Live Fundraisers and Shopping.Expands Instagram's functionality for businesses and creators. Racket- Enables global audio conversations. - Suitable for small businesses and marketing. - Competes with Clubhouse with micro-podcasts.Offers a unique platform for audio discussions through your phone's browser. Wisdom (Mentioned)- Focuses on mentorship through audio conversations. - Provides an additional angle for entrepreneurs.Ideal for mentorship and knowledge sharing in the audio format. Navigating the World of Social Audio: Tips for Small Businesses While social audio platforms present exciting opportunities for small businesses to engage with their audience in new ways, it’s essential to approach them strategically. Here are some tips to help you make the most of these platforms: Understand Your Audience: Before diving into social audio, research your target audience’s preferences and habits on these platforms. Knowing their interests and behaviors will guide your content strategy. Content Planning: Plan your audio content carefully. Consider hosting discussions, Q&A sessions, or interviews related to your industry or niche. Ensure your content aligns with your brand’s messaging and values. Engage Actively: Social audio relies on interaction. Motivate listeners to ask questions, express their opinions, and join in discussions. Actively engage with your audience to foster a community centered around your brand. Consistency: It’s important to establish a regular schedule for your audio sessions. Whether you host a weekly podcast or a monthly live event, maintaining consistency keeps your audience engaged and aware of your future content. Promote Your Sessions: Use other social media channels to promote your social audio sessions. Announce upcoming events, share highlights, and encourage followers to join your audio discussions. Collaborate: Explore collaboration opportunities with influencers or experts in your industry. Partnering with well-known figures can help you reach a broader audience and establish credibility. Monitor Analytics: Most social audio platforms offer analytics tools. Keep an eye on metrics like listener engagement, session duration, and audience demographics. Use this data to refine your strategy. Stay Updated: The social audio landscape is evolving rapidly. Stay informed about new features and trends on these platforms to adapt your approach and take advantage of emerging opportunities. Respect Privacy: Be mindful of privacy concerns. Avoid sharing sensitive or personal information during live sessions, and ensure you comply with platform-specific guidelines. Feedback and Improvement: Encourage feedback from your audience and use it to improve your content and delivery. Consider conducting surveys or polls to gather insights. Experiment and Innovate: Don’t be afraid to try new formats or ideas. Experiment with different types of content and formats to discover what resonates best with your audience. Conclusion The rise of social audio platforms presents a dynamic opportunity for small businesses to engage with their audience in innovative ways. These platforms offer a unique avenue to connect with customers, build communities, and enhance brand visibility. By understanding the nuances of social audio, creating compelling content, and actively participating in discussions, small businesses can harness the power of this evolving medium to strengthen their online presence, drive customer engagement, and stay at the forefront of the ever-changing digital landscape. As the world of social audio continues to evolve, staying informed, adapting to new trends, and maintaining an authentic and engaging presence will be key to reaping the benefits of this exciting communication channel. Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is Social Audio and How Can Your Small Business Use It?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The latest social media products use audio to communicate. Like audio messaging and conversation rooms. That’s the quick definition of social audio. This is a great new way for small businesses to engage new prospects and develop a brand. Consumers expect the human element when they interact with a small business. And the pandemic has forced these platforms to become the new normal. Here’s what you need to know about this latest social media innovation. What are Social Audio Platforms? Social audio integrates social media by adding premium audio experiences. Some of the social media sites that have launched have a built-in audience already. Big players have jumped on board. Facebook announced they are building tools to create audio snippets like Soundbites. Twitter has an audio conversation tool that includes up to 13 people at once. The trend is important for marketing. The human voice is intimate and engaging. Still, you need to watch for personal data concerns when you enter a room. Big names like Facebook top many lists for collecting this info. New Audio Social Platforms are Growing These platforms are gaining in popularity. They’re poised to be the next big thing. Check out the available stats for an industry leader in this social connection space, Clubhouse. And then read on to find out how you can use this technology to get to the next level by increasing your social media ROI. How to Use Audio Social Media in Your Business Understanding how to use these new social platforms is important. Here’s five methods and tools to build a much different experience in communication. There are some big advantages for small businesses. They can use these tools to train people to dialog, communicate and present. It all adds up to more of the kind of engagement that drives sales and profits for yet another way of how to make money on social media. Live Audio Rooms Facebook provides one of these options. You can choose a time and invite speakers. You can have up to 50 speakers, while there is no limit on the number of listeners. Please note that participants need to be iOS users. For additional information on other requirements, follow this link. This is a great way for small businesses to satisfy their marketing/engagement needs. Get connected with prospects from around the world. This innovation is designed to compete with Clubhouse. Social Audio for Online Events Clubhouse understands how a live conversation at an online event makes a difference. This drop in audio chat tool offers excellent audio quality. And you can deliver personalized messages during big events. It’s a great way to engage target market audiences. Social Audio For Voice Messaging This app functions as a voice-only news feed. Listen to voice messages that have a limited lifespan. It’s ideal for small business owners looking for up-to-date information. Keep informed about the latest requirements in your niche. As A Radio Station Build a community around music. Host a radio station through a social audio app. Talk freely as people listen. Stationhead integrates with Spotify and Apple Music. For Audio Meetings Small business owners looking for live conversations focusing on audio first take note. Slack huddles can have up to 50 participants. Users can turn on captions and screens. A great option for departments that need to brainstorm when facing deadlines. This is a great option when video marketing tools need a little extra push. Or when you’d rather go with the audio rather than the visual. MethodDescription Live Audio Rooms- Facebook offers live audio rooms where you can schedule and invite speakers. - Allows up to 50 speakers and unlimited listeners. - iOS users can access this feature. Social Audio for Online Events- Platforms like Clubhouse offer live audio chat for online events. - High-quality audio and the ability to send personalized messages during events make it ideal for engaging target audiences. Social Audio for Voice Messaging- Use apps that offer voice-only news feeds. - Listen to voice messages that expire, ideal for staying updated on niche requirements. As A Radio Station- Host a radio station through a social audio app, creating a community around music. - Engage with your audience through free-flowing audio discussions. - Platforms like Stationhead integrate with Spotify and Apple Music. Audio Meetings- Utilize platforms like Slack for audio meetings with up to 50 participants. - Features like captions and screens enhance brainstorming and discussion. - A valuable option for video marketing when audio takes precedence. The Best Social Audio Apps and Audio Social Media Platforms A social audio app is a social media tool that uses audio to let users communicate with each other. A live audio conversation is only one element of these new social innovations. Following are a few of the top app choices with a current version of each. Clubhouse You can download Clubhouse from the App Store and also on Android. This social audio platform offers roles for a moderator, speaker, and listener. It has specific rules that address certain topics, including the violation of intellectual property rights. The co founder of Clubhouse is Paul Davison. Rohan Seth is the other person who co founded the company. They are one of the biggest players in this quickly developing field. Greenroom Got a large audience? Users here can monetize by getting access to what’s called a creator fund. Create recordings of conversations for use later with this platform. Sign up with a Spotify account. Select topics in advance and be notified about future discussions. This is a good tool when you want to get notified about marketing topics. And trends that make a difference to your target market. Facebook Live Audio Rooms The number of people consuming through this social online tool has no limits. But only 50 speakers at a time have access to this space. With no cap on the listeners, this type of room challenges Clubhouse. Allowing people who are listening to react with live captions is another bonus. Spoon. This social media/audio option is available for Android and iOS. You don’t need to worry about monetizing with annoying banner ads. There’s technology here whereby users can provide digital gifts. Get original live podcasts and more tools and channels for marketing through engagement. This app draws in more people through recorded snippets. Instagram Live Rooms Attend virtual events with three other people. There are features for businesses here like Live Fund Raisers and Shopping. The Live Camera option gives you access. You’ll be at the top of the screen until you add other creators. If you run into any issues, there’s a customer care page that can help. Racket Another app that enables you to connect with people globally is Racket. This platform is beneficial for small businesses and marketing efforts. Racket competes with industry giants like Clubhouse by offering micro podcasts. It operates through conversations on your phone’s browser. Keep in mind that this is a rapidly growing area. For instance, there’s a new tool that emphasizes mentorship. Wisdom offers an excellent perspective for entrepreneurs. App / PlatformDescriptionNotable Features Clubhouse- Available on the App Store and Android. - Offers roles for moderators, speakers, and listeners. - Rules cover certain topics, including intellectual property rights.Co-founded by Paul Davison and Rohan Seth. Twitter Spaces- Conduct audio conversations on Twitter. - Open to Twitter users. - Conversations are public, like Tweets. - Ideal for when text or video isn't suitable.Enhances Twitter's social media experience. Greenroom- Allows monetization through the creator fund. - Create and record conversations. - Sign up with Spotify account. - Topics and future discussions notifications.Valuable for staying updated on marketing topics and industry trends. Facebook Live Audio Rooms- Unlimited listeners, but limited to 50 speakers. - Live captions for listener reactions. - High potential for audience engagement.Provides an alternative to Clubhouse with the potential for a larger audience. Spoon.- Available on Android and iOS. - No banner ads for user-friendly experience. - Users can provide digital gifts. - Offers live podcasts and marketing tools.Draws in users with engaging live podcasts and recorded snippets. Instagram Live Rooms- Allows virtual events with up to three participants. - Business features like Live Fundraisers and Shopping.Expands Instagram's functionality for businesses and creators. Racket- Enables global audio conversations. - Suitable for small businesses and marketing. - Competes with Clubhouse with micro-podcasts.Offers a unique platform for audio discussions through your phone's browser. Wisdom (Mentioned)- Focuses on mentorship through audio conversations. - Provides an additional angle for entrepreneurs.Ideal for mentorship and knowledge sharing in the audio format. Navigating the World of Social Audio: Tips for Small Businesses While social audio platforms present exciting opportunities for small businesses to engage with their audience in new ways, it’s essential to approach them strategically. Here are some tips to help you make the most of these platforms: Understand Your Audience: Before diving into social audio, research your target audience’s preferences and habits on these platforms. Knowing their interests and behaviors will guide your content strategy. Content Planning: Plan your audio content carefully. Consider hosting discussions, Q&A sessions, or interviews related to your industry or niche. Ensure your content aligns with your brand’s messaging and values. Engage Actively: Social audio relies on interaction. Motivate listeners to ask questions, express their opinions, and join in discussions. Actively engage with your audience to foster a community centered around your brand. Consistency: It’s important to establish a regular schedule for your audio sessions. Whether you host a weekly podcast or a monthly live event, maintaining consistency keeps your audience engaged and aware of your future content. Promote Your Sessions: Use other social media channels to promote your social audio sessions. Announce upcoming events, share highlights, and encourage followers to join your audio discussions. Collaborate: Explore collaboration opportunities with influencers or experts in your industry. Partnering with well-known figures can help you reach a broader audience and establish credibility. Monitor Analytics: Most social audio platforms offer analytics tools. Keep an eye on metrics like listener engagement, session duration, and audience demographics. Use this data to refine your strategy. Stay Updated: The social audio landscape is evolving rapidly. Stay informed about new features and trends on these platforms to adapt your approach and take advantage of emerging opportunities. Respect Privacy: Be mindful of privacy concerns. Avoid sharing sensitive or personal information during live sessions, and ensure you comply with platform-specific guidelines. Feedback and Improvement: Encourage feedback from your audience and use it to improve your content and delivery. Consider conducting surveys or polls to gather insights. Experiment and Innovate: Don’t be afraid to try new formats or ideas. Experiment with different types of content and formats to discover what resonates best with your audience. Conclusion The rise of social audio platforms presents a dynamic opportunity for small businesses to engage with their audience in innovative ways. These platforms offer a unique avenue to connect with customers, build communities, and enhance brand visibility. By understanding the nuances of social audio, creating compelling content, and actively participating in discussions, small businesses can harness the power of this evolving medium to strengthen their online presence, drive customer engagement, and stay at the forefront of the ever-changing digital landscape. As the world of social audio continues to evolve, staying informed, adapting to new trends, and maintaining an authentic and engaging presence will be key to reaping the benefits of this exciting communication channel. Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is Social Audio and How Can Your Small Business Use It?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

There’s been a lot of talk about the U.S. buying (or forcibly taking over) other countries recently. But now, a new petition, calling for Denmark to buy California, is flipping the script. The 100% satirical petition,”Denmarkification,” has cropped up in response to Trump’s declaration of interest in purchasing Greenland, a Denmark territory. And, at present, the tongue-and-cheek call to action has collected over 220K signatures. “Have you ever looked at a map and thought, ‘You know what Denmark needs? More sunshine, palm trees, and roller skates.’ Well, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make that dream a reality,” the petition reads. “Let’s buy California from Donald Trump! Yes, you heard that right. California could be ours, and we need your help to make it happen.” The gimmick, which features the tagline “Make California Great Again” continues, citing California’s most desirable qualities which could be adopted by Denmark, like excellent weather, “Avocado Toast Forever” and Disneyland, which the petition quips Denmark will rename “Hans Christian Andersenland.” The petition also states that the purchase will “protect the free world,” echoing some of Trump’s previous statements about his intent to buy Greenland. At a Jan. 7 press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Trump said, “You have approximately 45,000 people there. People really don’t even know if Denmark has any legal right to it. But if they do, they should give it up because we need it for national security. That’s for the free world.” In his last term, Trump floated the idea of buying Greenland, too. However, in 2025, the conversation is ramping up. On Tuesday, a Georgia Republican introduced legislation which would authorize President Donald Trump to acquire the island of Greenland and rename it to “Red, White, and Blueland.” “America is back and will soon be bigger than ever with the addition of Red, White, and Blueland,” said U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter. “President Trump has correctly identified the purchase of what is now Greenland as a national security priority, and we will proudly welcome its people to join the freest nation to ever exist when our Negotiator-in-Chief inks this monumental deal.” Of course, Greenland isn’t exactly chomping at the bit to become part of the U.S. Officials in both Greenland and Denmark have said they aren’t interested in the transaction. In a written statement, per Reuters, the prime minister of Greenland, Múte Egsede, said Greenland won’t be sold to the U.S. “Greenland is ours,” Egsede wrote. “We are not for sale and will never be for sale. We must not lose our long struggle for freedom.” View the full article

Duo, the infamous Duolingo owl, is dead. The language-learning app shared the news in a tongue-in-cheek post yesterday. The cause of death remains under investigation, but Duolingo has its own theory: “Tbh, he probably died waiting for you to do your lesson, but what do we know?” the company wrote on X. “We’re aware he had many enemies, but we kindly ask you to refrain from sharing why you hate him in the comments.” an important message from Duolingo pic.twitter.com/jTTT680yVs — Duolingo (@duolingo) February 11, 2025 The brand didn’t miss an opportunity to plug its premium service either, adding: “If you feel inclined to share, please also share your credit card number so we can automatically sign you up for Duolingo Max in his memory.” The company also couldn’t pass up the opportunity to mention the viral meme that confuses Duo with pop star Dua Lipa: “We appreciate you respecting Dua Lipa’s privacy at this time,” it wrote. (Dua Lipa herself responded to the news mournfully, posting on X: “Til’ death duo part.”) Duolingo has fully committed to the bit, updating its X profile picture to an image of Duo with cartoonish crosses over his eyes. Meanwhile, over on TikTok, a video shows fellow Duolingo characters Lily and Zari solemnly carrying Duo’s coffin onto the bed of a pickup truck. “Btw im deaf so i hope this is a sad song,” the video’s text overlay reads as the X-rated lyrics of the song ‘Good Lookin’’ by Dixon Dallas play. Duo’s reputation was always tied to his parent company’s relentless push notifications that guilt-tripped users into keeping up with their daily language practice. “Bro spent his last days begging me to learn French… and I ignored him…,” one X user posted under the announcement. “I will never recover from this.” Over time, Duo evolved from a simple mascot into an internet-wide meme with his own lore (he once harassed Drake and appeared on Netflix’s Squid Game). While the Duolingo owl received plenty of tongue-in-cheek dislike, few expected the company to actually kill him off. Yet, that’s exactly what they did. Duo now joins the ranks of fallen corporate icons like Twitter’s beloved blue bird (axed in 2023 after Elon Musk rebranded the platform as X) and Mr. Peanut (killed off by Planters in a 2020 Super Bowl commercial). At the time of writing, there’s been no confirmation on why Duo is no more, and Duolingo did not immediately respond to Fast Company’s request for comment. However, the official X account teased today: “UPDATE: Officials have identified cause of death. More details to follow.” View the full article

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is braced for a steep downgrade by the Office for Budget Responsibility to its forecasts for outputView the full article

All Swedish schools and pre-schools will have to make plans to keep unauthorised people off their premises, the government said on Wednesday, as the country tries to come to terms with the worst school shooting in its history last week. Ten people were shot dead at the Campus Risbergska school in Orebro, before the suspected perpetrator – identified by a Reuters source and Swedish media as Rickard Andersson, a 35-year-old Swedish recluse – turned a weapon on himself. The attack has raised questions about whether security at Sweden’s schools needs to be improved. Unlike in many other countries, schools are generally seen as semi-public spaces and rarely have any controls on who can come and go. Minister of Education Johan Pehrson told a news conference that all schools and pre-schools would have to have a plan for how to keep unauthorised people out. “For example, it could involve…entry registry, controls and a locking system with locked doors,” he said, but added that it was up to individual schools to work out what worked best for them. The Campus Risbergska shooter entered the school with a hunting rifle and two shotguns in what witnesses have described as a “guitar-shaped box” before he started to shoot. Marwa, who declined to give her full name, survived the attack and helped tend to a fellow student, but said she didn’t think she would go back to the school to finish her nursing training. “I really don’t think so,” she told Reuters. “They need to do something. It’s really strange that a person can just walk in with weapons like that without anyone noticing.” The government will also speed up legislation that would make it easier for schools to install surveillance cameras without seeking permission, and let personnel search bags. Sweden’s right-wing government also said last week it would seek to tighten gun laws as the attacker appeared to have used several of his own licensed rifles. —Johan Ahlander, Reuters View the full article

Whenever I open Reddit these days, it feels like I'm just asking to see outrage bait. That means posts from AITA, posts from AIO (Am I Overreacting), and posts about political turmoil. As a writer, I need to check Reddit to keep a tab on interesting new app launches, common problems people face with technology (so that I can write about the solutions), and sometimes, to solve a niche problem that I face with my own tech. But if I accidentally open Reddit's default home page, my mental health starts tanking, and my thoughts become angrier, too. Yes, a lot of bad things are going on in the world right now, but I don't want to hear about them all the time. My brain needs a break from all of that once in a while. Unfortunately, Reddit doesn't offer easy tools to filter out unwanted posts from your feed, but a few months ago, I discovered Protego ($1), a Safari extension that offers this functionality. Protego lets you create a personalized blocklist to hide all kinds of outrage fuel on Reddit. You can block keywords, links to specific domains, social media sites, and automatically get redirected to Reddit's legacy UI (which has far fewer distracting widgets that try to increase engagement). Create Reddit filters using Protego Credit: Pranay Parab First, open Protego on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, then go to the Filters tab and select Keywords. Hit the + button and select Add Keyword List. This lets you add multiple keyword filters to Reddit in one go. You need to add a comma between keywords, eg: AITA, AIO, Elon Musk, etc. Protego also supports wildcards, which lets you block multiple variations of an offending word. For instance, if you want to block the term AITA and related terms such as AITAH, then simply add AITA to the blocklist, and it'll block any words that start with AITA. When you're done adding keywords, you can share your blocklist with others if you like. Protego lets you export blocklists in a JSON file, which it imports seamlessly. To use this feature, open the app and go to Filter > List Management. Block posts that link to specific websites Credit: Pranay Parab In its most recent update, Protego added the ability to block specific domains. You can enable this by going to Filter > Social Media in the app and turning on the switches next to social media platforms you'd rather avoid. For me, it was a no-brainer to block posts that link to X, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Other options include YouTube, Snapchat, Pinterest, Bluesky, Mastodon, and a few more social media sites. You can also block custom domains by going to Filter > Domains. Hit the + button here and select Add Domain List. Just as you added multiple keywords earlier, you can use this form to add many domains to the blocklist in one go. There are several well-known sites that thrive on fake news, sensationalism, and low-quality content, and making your own block list will keep these sites off Reddit in Safari. While this feature is great, Protego still needs the ability to filter out subreddits from your feed. With this feature, I can easily hide posts from subreddits known to post fake rage bait stories and those that contain political propaganda that I'd rather not see. The developer is working on this feature, and it'll hopefully be available in the near future. A few more quality-of-life improvements Credit: Pranay Parab Finally, Protego has a few nice Reddit tweaks that make the site a lot easier to browse. These features are in the app's Settings tab. You can ask the app to automatically switch you to Reddit's legacy UI, which looks a lot more spartan but doesn't have annoying suggested content and autoplaying videos. The extension also allows you to hide promoted posts and Reddit ads, and on mobile Safari, it hides Reddit's annoying open-this-in-the-app banner. You can also ask it to automatically hide or collapse automoderator comments in all threads. All of these things make Protego a must-have for anyone who uses Reddit on Safari for iPhone, iPad, or Mac. A single purchase unlocks the app on all platforms, and the extension syncs your settings and keyword filters across devices. After setting up the app, opening r/popular or r/all no longer ruins my day. I see more content around sports, nature, dogs and cats, video games, and even heartwarming posts from niche subreddits like r/quilting. This has reduced the dominance of some of Reddit's largest communities in my view of the popular feed, and I'm now seeing more of the kinds of posts that drew me to this site in the first place. It's still far from ideal, given that the discourse on Reddit continues to be dominated by the kinds of posts I've hidden, but hey, at least I can easily distance myself from them now. View the full article